Check with a healthcare professional for your kidney function (eGFR, urine albumin/protein, blood pressure, blood tests).
Control blood pressure to the target recommended for you.
Manage diabetes with individualized targets for blood sugar and A1C.
Take prescribed medications as directed (e.g., ACE inhibitors/ARBs, SGLT2 inhibitors, statins) if recommended.
Reduce sodium intake (avoid high-salt processed foods).
Follow a kidney-friendly diet plan if advised (often includes limiting sodium and, when needed, protein, phosphorus, and potassium).
Eat adequate calories to prevent malnutrition; avoid extreme dieting.
Stay hydrated appropriately for your condition and clinician’s guidance.
Avoid or limit NSAIDs (ibuprofen, naproxen, diclofenac) unless your clinician approves.
Avoid nephrotoxic supplements and “detox” products (especially those with unknown ingredients, high-dose vitamins, or herbs).
Use caution with contrast dye for imaging; ask about kidney-protective strategies beforehand.
Stop smoking and avoid nicotine products.
Limit alcohol intake.
Maintain a healthy weight through diet and physical activity appropriate for your health status.
Exercise regularly (as tolerated and approved by your clinician).
Treat underlying causes (e.g., urinary obstruction, infections, autoimmune disease).
Monitor and manage cholesterol and cardiovascular risk.
Get vaccines recommended for kidney disease (e.g., flu, pneumococcal, hepatitis B).
Track symptoms and lab results; follow scheduled follow-ups.
Ensure medication doses are adjusted for kidney function.
Avoid high-potassium foods or supplements if you have elevated potassium; follow clinician guidance.
Avoid high-phosphorus foods or phosphate additives if phosphorus is elevated; follow clinician guidance.
Manage anemia and bone-mineral disorder if diagnosed (with clinician-directed treatment).
If you have kidney stones or recurrent UTIs, follow a prevention plan tailored to the cause.